[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 146 (Monday, October 27, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S11240]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       FIREFIGHTER ANTHONY GLOVER

 Mr. FRIST. Mr. President. It is not everyday that we hear 
about the heroic pursuits of firefighters across the Nation even though 
many risk their lives daily to protect our communities and homes. 
Firefighter Anthony Glover is one of those heros and his efforts to 
save the life of a fellow firefighter certainly deserve special 
recognition.
  Last May, the Nashville Fire Department's Engine Company No. 9 
responded to a multi-alarm fire. Upon arrival it was very clear that 
the conditions of the blaze were advanced, quickly deteriorating the 
burning building. There to do their job, Firefighter Glover and Capt. 
Terry Secrest entered the building to better access the source of the 
fire. Little did the firemen know that the building was slowly 
collapsing around them.
  Before reaching the source of the fire, Captain Secrest's face piece 
became disconnected from his oxygen source, leaving the captain exposed 
to severe conditions that would surely end his life. Without 
hesitation, Firefighter Anthony Glover removed his face piece; exposing 
himself to the unbearable conditions, in order to share his oxygen with 
Captain Secrest. This act of courage was just the beginning in a series 
of life threatening events.
  As the two firefighters were sharing the lone source of oxygen, 
super-heated gases ignited a blaze of fire, cutting the men off from 
their destination. A nearby exit from the flame engulfed building was 
also blocked. Captain Secrest, overcome by the extreme conditions, was 
unable to continue. Glover, at the end of his oxygen supply, proceeded 
to drag the captain 90 feet to safety with nothing to guide him in zero 
visibility and intense heat. Firefighter Glover navigated a maze of 
burning materials and blocked doorways before breaking through a 
charred wall and dragging the captain and himself to safety.
  Mr. President, Anthony Glover is a true hero. Firefighter Glover 
overcame panic, fear, and the instinct to save one's own self in order 
to save the life of a fellow firefighter, regardless of putting his own 
life in danger. Due to Firefighter Glover's heroic efforts, Captain 
Secrest survived the life threatening ordeal. Had it not been for 
Glovers selfless deed Captain Secrest would have suffered fatal 
injuries resulting in certain death. It is only fitting that he receive 
the Departmental Medal of Honor for this act of extraordinary heroism. 
I admire Firefighter Anthony Glover's courage and determination and 
wish him the best of luck.

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